China
Beijing travel guide
Plan a trip to Beijing: what to eat, where to stay, the best day trips and ready-made day-by-day plans.
What to eat in Beijing
See all
Peking DuckCrispy roasted duck served with pancakes, scallions and sweet bean sauce, a staple at banquets and specialty restaurants.
JiaoziBoiled or pan‑fried pork or vegetable dumplings, eaten for breakfast, lunch or dinner, especially during Chinese New Year.
ZhajiangmianThick wheat noodles topped with fermented soybean paste, minced pork and fresh cucumber, a common lunch dish.
DouzhiSavory, slightly sour soup sold at street stalls, often enjoyed with fried dough sticks for breakfast.
Where to stay in Beijing
See all
culture lovers
Close to the Forbidden City and hutongs, offering historic ambience and many mid‑range hotels.
nightlife seekers
Home to Sanlitun, the CBD and many international hotels, ideal for dining and entertainment.
budget travelers
Features older neighborhoods, budget hostels and easy access to subway lines.
students & tech
Near universities and tech parks, with modern hotels and good transport links.
Day trips from Beijing
See all
Mutianyu Great Wall
61 km
Mutianyu offers restored wall sections and cable cars, less crowded than central sites.
Badaling Great Wall
59 km
Badaling is the most visited wall, easy access by train and good facilities.
Juyongguan Great Wall
54 km
Juyongguan combines a mountain pass with historic gates, good for a quick hike.
Cuandixia Village
65 km
Cuandixia is a well‑preserved Ming‑Qing village with stone houses and tea houses.
Best time to visit
Best time to go: April, September
Midday highs, based on last year's weather. Green months have comfortable temperatures and few rainy days.
Turn this into a day-by-day plan with Triptime AI, or start from a ready-made one.
Plan 5 days in Beijing
Layover in Beijing
What to pack in October
Ready-made plans for Beijing
Questions about Beijing
When is the best time to eat Peking duck?
Most restaurants serve it all day, but dinner service (6‑9 pm) offers a more relaxed atmosphere.
Do I need to speak Mandarin to order food?
Menus often have pictures and English translations in tourist areas; basic phrases help.
Is it safe to stay in a hostel in Beijing?
Yes, reputable hostels have secure lockers and 24‑hour reception; read recent guest reviews.
How far in advance should I book a hotel near the Forbidden City?
During holidays and the spring travel rush, book at least a month ahead; otherwise 1‑2 weeks is sufficient.
